Permits Unit

Unit Commander
Lieutenant Tommy Troy

PROGRAM PURPOSE AND DESCRIPTION

The SJPD Permits Unit is primarily an administrative unit which conducts regulatory oversight over various businesses operating within the city. Regulatory oversight includes enforcement of various sections of the San Jose Municipal Code and conducting criminal investigations that may develop through the normal course of business. The Permits Unit issues business permits and ensures compliance with laws through inspections of the various businesses that it regulates including: taxi companies, tow companies, massage parlors, entertainment venues, gaming establishments, bingo parlors, and peddlers.

The Permits Unit works closely with the City Attorney’s Office to implement Municipal Code changes that impact these businesses in addition to initiating legal sanctions against violators. In addition, the Permits Unit also manages the false alarm program and assesses financial penalties to repeat offenders. Complaints about businesses regulated by the Permits Unit are also investigated and resolved. The Permits Unit also provides direction for the enforcement of the Municipal Code sections to these businesses regulated by the Permits Unit to the uniformed Patrol Division of the Police Department.

Hours of Operation

Monday – Friday

Open: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm

Closed: Noon to 1:00 pm

The Permits Unit operates on an appointment schedule with limited walk-ins.

To contact the Permits Unit to make an appointment, phone: (408) 277-4452.

Members of the public wishing to obtain a CCW license under the standards articulated by the Ninth Circuit should be aware that the decision
has not yet become final. Federal court rules prescribe a period of time which must elapse before the case is remanded to the District Court for
further proceedings. All applications will continue to be received based on the current “good cause” standard. Applicants will be
contacted by a member of the San Jose Police Department Permits Unit with instructions on how to move forward with the process.

The City of San José is committed to open and honest government and strives to consistently meet the community's expectations by
providing excellent service, in a positive and timely manner, and in the full view of the public. Read more about the
City Code of Ethics.